New lid?

[Angrybiker]

Pinlock on my 8 year old Arai looks like it's starting to be less effective and steaming up. Since all the websites and manufacturers seem to be recommending changing lids every 5 years or so (regardless of how often it's been used or how it's stored) I was starting to wonder whether I should just get a new lid rather than just a new visor - and there seems to be a decent technological gap between my current RX7 Corsair to the new RX7-V. I'm sure there are both CYA and marketing elements associated with the 5 year recommendation; and I have a degree in engineering but I'm not familiar enough with the materials and manufacturing processes involved in lid construction to make a personal assessment of the veracity of the 5 year recommendation.

Does anyone by any chance have any intel or experience to help me make a decision?

cheers

[horico]

I was in exactly the same position as you recently. Picked up the new rx-v in black frost and it's very nice, even compared with my old version. Unless there's a money issue, get a new one sooner rather than later and keep yer swede safe and comfy.

The visor is much easier to move with gloves, as arethe vents and the side pod. The visor removal system far simpler. The opening in the front is slightly larger too and the pull down 'spoiler' is replaced by a snug scarf type arrangement.

Edit: old and new being modelled by the women of the house.

Edited by horico on Tuesday 17th January 13:07

[knitware]

I've just had the same thoughts this week. I have a Shoei Neotec and want something a little sportier for Spring and Summer. I looked at the Arai RX RV and placed an order with SportsBikeShop, they have a Pedrosa replica on sale at £479.99, bargain. I then found the same helmet at Biker Bargains for £499.99 but came with a spare visor and Arai helmet bag so I cancelled the SportsBikeShop order but then...

I read reviews and looked at the Shoei X Spirit 3, these lids are expensive but I found my size being sold by Ghost Bikes for £499 with a spare visor and £50 voucher. I know my head fits a Shoei and they are a really nice quality item so I ordered that.

Quality wise Arai are fabulous and so are Shoei, these are the only two helmet brands I've owned so can't comment on other types. Hopefully now you have a few options as to where to buy!

I may look odd on a K1600 with a full on race helmet but with good vents and stability I'm sure it'll be great.

[2wheelsjimmy]

knitware said:

I've just had the same thoughts this week. I have a Shoei Neotec and want something a little sportier for Spring and Summer. I looked at the Arai RX RV and placed an order with SportsBikeShop, they have a Pedrosa replica on sale at £479.99, bargain. I then found the same helmet at Biker Bargains for £499.99 but came with a spare visor and Arai helmet bag so I cancelled the SportsBikeShop order but then...

I read reviews and looked at the Shoei X Spirit 3, these lids are expensive but I found my size being sold by Ghost Bikes for £499 with a spare visor and £50 voucher. I know my head fits a Shoei and they are a really nice quality item so I ordered that.

Quality wise Arai are fabulous and so are Shoei, these are the only two helmet brands I've owned so can't comment on other types. Hopefully now you have a few options as to where to buy!

I may look odd on a K1600 with a full on race helmet but with good vents and stability I'm sure it'll be great.

SBS are normally willing to match anything. I'd use that, because their customer service post purchase is better then anyone.

[knitware]

Just a quick update. My new helmet arrived, 2 days after order and at £499 the Shoei Spirit 3 is a bargain. It's beautifully made, fits really snugly and comfortable, i'm a medium and pulls my ears off when I take if off, however the lightness is fantastic and build quality is wonderful!

[Wedg1e]

Funnily enough I've just acquired (courtesy of one Mr. S. Claus ) a Shoei Neotec after ten years with an AGV S4.
Yes, I know the blurb says chop your lid after 5 years but I only ride for 6 months of the year anyway - besides, I'm an adult and can decide my own level of risk. You can take every precaution under the sun and the chap with the scythe can still find ways to bump you off.
That said, trying the AGV on after wearing the Neo did make me realise how 'comfortable' was starting to equal 'loose'... I think I'll keep the AGV for a couple more years though (a) just in case and (b) for karting

[patchb]

I have to say, I was always under the impression that Arai were the leading helmet brand with shoei and AGV closely following, and I still thing Arai's are by far the best looking lids and the build quality is great, however I'm not sure I'll buy another once my current one is done, the side pods make it so fking noisy! I can't ride with ear plugs in as I find them a distraction, so loud compared to my previous AGV. I do wish I'd bought the Shoei NXR that I was considering, they both fitted as well as each other but I preferred the looks of the Arai.
I wish it was possible to test ride a lid rather than just trying it on in the shop.

Nothing to do with your question really...